Visiting Desert Region

The California Desert region is split between two deserts - the Mojave and the Colorado. With several museums, national parks and preserves in this region, a drive through the California Desert can be an exciting one. Visit the Death Valley National Park. One of the hottest places on earth, Death Valley averages 100 degrees. The Joshua Tree National Park is ideal for hiking, biking and searching for geological artifacts; while the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve offers numerous trails, marshes and a boardwalk. With Best Western hotels offering over 5 properties in the desert region of California, making a trip from northern to southern CA can be a comfortable and easy one.

Traveling to Arizona? Take a pit stop off HWY 10 and visit the General Patton Memorial Museum in Chiriaco Summit just outside of Indio. Honoring General George S. Patton and the thousands of men who served with him, the museum sits in the same place as the entrance to Camp Young - the command post for the DTC during World War II. Once you pull up you’ll know you’re there from the many tanks that line the entrance. Inside take a look at several exhibits displaying artifacts from the life and career of General Patton. From varied aspects of military life to rocks, minerals and fossils found in the region - visitors will leave with an understanding and knowledge about life in Chiriaco Summit during World War II. Before you depart, make sure you gas up at the Shell station and grab a bite to eat at Roy’s Café, as there won’t be another stop to recharge and refuel for 30 more miles in either direction.

Your next stop is the Palm Springs Art Museum located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. Taking a walk around this 83,000 square foot structure that houses natural history, desert life, Hollywood glitz, presidential politics, and performing arts is inspiring. Today a highbrow, upscale Museum, the Palm Springs Art Museum got a rocky start when its doors opened in 1938. Under several directors the museum has grown into one of the most respected exhibition spaces in the California Desert.

Making a detour to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a must. Located in Palm Desert, the Living Desert is a one-stop opportunity to explore all species of desert plants and animals. Home to more than 400 animals from zebra, Arabian Oryx, and Mexican Grey Wolves. There is also a reproduction of an authentic African village complete with an Elder’s Grove. Native musicians, storytellers and shopping at the Kumba Kumba Market, entertain guests.

Desert Region Hotel Map